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			contraception : physical devices Progestasert IUD Intrauterine Device
	more natural methods physical devices medication surgical emergency		An IUD is a small plastic device which is placed into the uterine cavity. The Progestasert IUD is shaped like a "T" and contains the hormone progesterone in its vertical arm. This hormone is exactly the same as the progesterone a woman's ovaries produce during each monthly cycle. The progesterone causes the cervical mucus to become thicker so sperm cannot reach the egg. It also changes the lining of the uterus so implantation of a fertilized egg cannot occur. Among typical couples who use the Progestasert IUD, about 2% will experience an accidental pregnancy in the first year. Complete information about this contraceptive is available from your clinician or the package insert accompanying the Progestasert IUD. Advantages: The Progestasert IUD is safe, convenient, and private. All you have to do is check for the strings each month. It provides effective contraception for one year. Women who use the Progestasert IUD experience decreased menstrual cramping and decreased menstrual blood loss. (Though you may bleed for more days, the overall blood loss is less.) You don't have to worry about contraception at the time of intercourse. IUDs are far more easily reversible than male or female sterilization. Disadvantages: The IUD commonly causes irregular periods. The number of bleeding days may be greater than normal. If your bleeding pattern is bothersome to you, contact your clinic or clinician. There are medications which may give you a more acceptable pattern of bleeding. Some women stop having periods completely. (This is an advantage for women who enjoy not having monthly periods.) There may be some cramping or pain at the time of insertion. The Progestasert IUD has to be replaced in one year; other IUDs can be left in longer. It is costly to remove and reinsert a new IUD each year. Where can I get the Progestasert IUD? You can get an IUD from your clinician, health department, or family planning clinic. Not all clinicians insert IUDs. Check in advance. Most clinics insert IUDs when a woman has her period or within 7 days after her last period began. What if I have sex before my IUD is inserted and I don't use birth control? For 72 hours AFTER unprotected sex, you can take emergency contraceptive pills to avoid becoming pregnant. For up to 7 days AFTER unprotected sex, you can have an IUD put in. Not all clinicians know about emergency contraception. If you want more information or would like the phone numbers of clinicians near you who prescribe emergency contraception, CALL the toll-free hotline 1-888-NOT-2-LATE or 1-800-584-9911. Some of these sources of help are free.		physical devices cervical cap condoms for men condoms for women vaginal film(VCF) diaphragm copper T IUD emergency IUD levonorgestrel IUD implanon implant norplant implants
			Last Update: 09/10/2004

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